When Irish President Michael D Higgins first took office in 2011, he made his love of dogs well-known to the public.

He first welcomed Shadow, a Bernese Mountain Dog, followed by Síoda and Bród.

The last of his pets, Misneach, is the only one remaining – and he’s enjoying his last few days of residency at Áras.

On Instagram, Higgins wrote: ‘Misneach and friends – including Rosie, Luna, Rollo and Teddy- have been enjoying his final few weeks in Áras an Uachtaráin.’

The Irish are preparing to bid farewell to Higgins, as the new President, Catherine Connolly, takes office later today.

Ireland is saying goodbye to Misneach, whose name means ‘courage’ in Irish.

Over the years, he’s been photographed by his master’s side as he greets, sniffs and licks businessmen and political leaders from

See Full Page